WRCC Hosts Rural Affairs Minister in Warwickshire: Showcasing Vital Rural Assets
On February 27, 2025, Warwickshire Rural Community Council (WRCC) had the honor of hosting Minister Daniel Zeichner MP and a delegation from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra). The visit highlighted the crucial role of rural assets in supporting thriving communities across Warwickshire. Here’s a recap of the key stops and why they were chosen to showcase the importance of these assets.
Stop 1: Barford Community Shop and Post Office
The first stop on the Minister’s visit was the Barford Village Shop and Post Office. This community-owned business, established 16 years ago, is a testament to the power of local initiative. When the previous owner retired, the village rallied to reopen the shop and post office within the Memorial Hall. This effort ensured that residents retained access to essential services and a central hub for social interaction. The shop’s success underscores the importance of community-owned businesses in maintaining vital services in rural areas.
Stop 2: Lighthorne Heath Warm Hub
Next, the delegation visited the Lighthorne Heath Warm Hub, a project supported by WRCC and Cadent Gas. Warm Hubs are designed to tackle social isolation, fuel poverty, and other cost-of-living issues by providing safe, warm, and welcoming spaces for residents. The Lighthorne Heath Warm Hub, located in the village hall, offers weekly events where residents can enjoy refreshments, social activities, and access to community support services. This initiative highlights the role of village halls and community centers in fostering social cohesion and resilience.
Stop 3: The New Inn, Norton Lindsey
The final stop was The New Inn in Norton Lindsey, a community-owned pub that exemplifies the concept of “More than a Pub.” Opened in 2017 with support from Plunkett UK, the pub not only serves food and drinks but also operates a community shop run by volunteers. This dual-purpose establishment has become a vital hub for the village, reducing social isolation and supporting local producers. The New Inn demonstrates how rural pubs can evolve to meet the changing needs of their communities.
The Importance of Rural Assets
Throughout the visit, Minister Zeichner witnessed firsthand how rural assets like village halls, warm hubs, shops, post offices, and pubs play a pivotal role in sustaining vibrant rural communities. These assets provide essential services, foster social connections, and support local economies, ensuring that rural areas remain attractive places to live and work.
Get in Touch
WRCC is committed to improving the lives of people living and working in rural Warwickshire. As a member of ACRE and the ACRE Network, we are proud to work with Defra to support change in local communities. If you would like to learn more about our work or get involved, please get in touch with us – 01789 842182 or enquiries@wrccrural.org.uk.
Together, we can continue to support and strengthen our rural communities.
